How Motel 6 Made Travel Dreams Come True in the 60s

Unveiling the Journey of Motel 6

Once upon a time, in the year 1960, a duo of spirited contractors, Paul Greene and William Becker, dared to embark on a cross-country adventure with their families, traversing the sprawling landscapes of our beautiful land. Amidst the adventure, they found themselves astounded by the scarcity of budget-friendly lodging options available for the average traveler, a realization that sparked an idea as bright as the stars they slept under.

A Beacon of Affordable Comfort

With dreams as boundless as the country they traversed, they envisioned a haven for the traveler – a motel that promised cleanliness and comfort at the most accessible price. Their brainstorming sessions led them to an ideal room rate that was as revolutionary as it was simple – six dollars. This rate was affordable enough to attract weary travelers, while still allowing for necessary expenses such as building costs and janitorial supplies.

The Birth of a Legacy

In the year 1962, the duo’s dream materialized in Santa Barbara, California, with the birth of a 52-room motel. A motel that offered a comforting embrace of sleep for just six dollars a night. The name they chose for their venture was as honest and straightforward as the service they offered – Motel 6.

Standing Tall Amidst the Luxurious

While other chains like Holiday Inn were investing in luxury and grandeur, Greene and Becker chose to walk a different path. They offered an alternative, a motel that may not boast the opulence of its competitors, but charged significantly less, welcoming guests with a warm smile and a softer impact on their wallets.

Simple Innovations, Big Impact

The founders designed every aspect of their first Motel 6 with a keen eye on cost reduction. They cleverly replaced conventional glasses with Styrofoam cups, introduced coin-operated television sets, and relied on billboard advertising to spread the word. Their efforts struck a chord with travelers, and by 1966, 26 Motel 6s were in operation.

Motel 6 Today: A Testament to Affordable Travel

Since its inception, Motel 6 has weathered the winds of competition and changing customer preferences. With over 800 locations today, it remains a steadfast beacon of affordable comfort for travelers. As Jesus taught us, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none,” Motel 6, in its own way, has shared the comfort of a warm bed and a clean room with those who might not afford the luxuries of higher-priced chains.

So, dear reader, as you reflect on this tale of simple beginnings and monumental success, we invite you to delve deeper into the story by watching the video below. Because every time you hit like and share, you keep the spirit of affordable travel alive.